Crackers, cheese, grapes and more helped neutralize the taste buds before sampling a different wine.

We started with the PsagotCabernet Sauvignon ’09, for both of us this one turned out to be best of the bunch, we loved it. Dark garnet in color with silky tannins, showing oak on the nose and opening to aromas and flavors of black and red currants and citrus-peel, followed by vanilla and a lingering smokiness. Though very good, I still prefer the ’08 vintage which I’ve tasted before.

We followed with the Teperberg Terra Malbec ’09, dark – in typical Malbec fashion – and full bodied. Soft tannins finely balanced with spicy wood and fruits. On the palate one discerned plums, black cherries and wild berries balanced with notes of cinnamon, ending with a long finish of espresso coffee. While we both liked it, Geila preferred the Psagot, I found this Teperberg better.

In totally opposition to the norm we then tasted a white wine, Binyamina Reserve Sauvignon Blanc ’09. Pale straw in color, it opens with notes of grapefruit and lime, giving way to stony minerals with hints of asparagus. Nicely aromatic.

We went back to red wine with a Dalton Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, dark colored and well balanced with notes of currants, berries and mint well complimented with the subtle vanilla flavors of French oak.

We also liked the Gush EtzionCabernet Franc 2007. Dark garnet, medium bodied with lots of soft tannins and notes of vanilla from the French oak casks where it aged for 18 months. On the palate it showed a rich array of blackberries, currant, black cherries giving way to Mediterranean herbs and saddle leather.

We capped the evening’s selection of potables with a L’ChaimVodka. Very smooth and tasty!

Rabbi Mikhael Cohen, from the FJCCNY

Rabbi Mikhael Cohen of the French Jewish Cultural Center of New York (67 Wall Street; Phone: 212.202.1448 – Cell: 917.796.0680), spoke of Chanuka and its significance today.

Providing the musical entertainment...

During the tasting we are accompanied by the musical sounds of Yiddish and Israeli classics. All and all an enjoyable evening of good wines and great conversation.